Oranges are one of the most delicious fruits that are equally popular in elder people, adults and children as well. This ‘God’s gift’ not only provides you a wonderful taste but also upsurges the resistance power.
1. Prevents Inflammation. Since oranges are a rich source of antioxidants, they also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, a study found that if you drink orange juice with a meal rich in fat and carbohydrates, you can prevent the oxidative stress and inflammation triggered in your body by these free radical-generating food items. This helps in preventing blood vessel damage and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
2. Lowers High Blood Pressure. Hesperidin, a major flavonoid present in orange juice, helps to control high blood pressure or hypertension. According to a study, drinking 500 ml of orange juice daily helped middle-aged overweight people lower their blood pressure and improve their overall heart health.
3. Balances Cholesterol Levels. Vitamin C, folate, and flavonoids in orange juice help decrease the LDL or bad cholesterol levels. Orange juice has a positive effect on blood lipid level as well. Consumption of 750 ml orange juice daily has been found to increase the HDL or good cholesterol concentrations by 21%, triacylglycerol concentrations by 30%, and folate concentrations by 18%. It also decreased the LDL-HDL cholesterol ratio by 16 percent.
4. Boosts the Immune System. An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about oranges? Vitamin C has long been touted as a powerhouse when it comes to supporting your immune system. Luckily, orange juice contains this particular nutrient in spades. Vitamin C nourishes your white blood cells to help them fight infection more effectively. A balanced diet full of fresh fruit and veg in general – not just oranges – will help your immune system function at its peak.
5. Orange Juice Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels. Studies found that orange juice with added plant sterols lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. In this case, concentrated orange juice performed better at lowering bad cholesterol levels due to the increased levels of flavonoids. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can contribute to heart disease. When this substance builds up in the blood, it may begin to accumulate on your artery walls. This causes blood flow to be restricted, which reduces oxygenation. If arteries become completely blocked, a heart attack can occur.
Comments